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Horse Rider Jobs in Michigan (NOW HIRING)

Wrangler

Rothbury, MI · On-site

$15/hr

Participate in the maintenance of horses, equipment, and facilities. * Understand (behavior ... Help inexperienced riders feel safe but can also understand when the rider needs to end ride ...

Horse Rider information

See Michigan salary details

$4

$15

$29

How much do horse rider jobs pay per hour?

As of Sep 1, 2026, the average hourly pay for horse rider in Michigan is $15.76, according to ZipRecruiter salary data. Most workers in this role earn between $10.05 and $19.47 per hour, depending on experience, location, and employer.

What is a horse rider?

A Horse Rider is a professional who rides and trains horses for various purposes, such as competition, racing, or performance shows. Their duties include exercising horses, improving their skills, and ensuring their well-being. Horse Riders may work in equestrian sports, racing, or entertainment industries. They often collaborate with trainers, owners, and veterinarians to maintain the horse's health and performance. Depending on the role, they may also assist in caring for and grooming horses.

What are the typical daily responsibilities of a horse rider?

A Horse Rider’s daily responsibilities commonly include grooming and preparing horses, exercising them through riding sessions, and sometimes assisting with training or rehabilitation programs. Riders often work closely with trainers, grooms, and stable managers to ensure horses are fit, healthy, and ready for their respective activities, such as competition or leisure rides. The role may also involve monitoring horse health, reporting issues to veterinary staff, and helping with basic tack maintenance. Depending on the setting, Horse Riders may participate in events or client demonstrations, contributing to the overall success of the equestrian team.

What are the key skills and qualifications needed to thrive in the horse rider position, and why are they important?

To thrive as a Horse Rider, you need strong equestrian skills, a good understanding of horse behavior, physical fitness, and often prior experience or training in horseback riding disciplines. Many employers prefer riders who have certifications from organizations such as the British Horse Society (BHS) or United States Equestrian Federation (USEF), and who are familiar with tack and stable management tools. Excellent communication, patience, and the ability to stay calm under pressure are vital soft skills for working with both horses and people, such as trainers or owners. These abilities ensure safety, effective training, and high performance in diverse riding environments.

How much do horse riders get paid?

Horse riders' pay varies based on experience, location, and type of employment. Professional equestrians can earn from minimum wage to several hundred dollars per day for riding or training, with some earning additional income through competitions, lessons, or stable work. Entry-level positions often pay around minimum wage, while experienced riders or those working in competitive or high-end settings can earn significantly more.

What are popular job titles related to Horse Rider jobs in Michigan?

For Horse Rider jobs in Michigan, the most frequently searched job titles are:

What job categories do people searching Horse Rider jobs in Michigan look for?

The top searched job categories for Horse Rider jobs in Michigan are:

Infographic showing various Horse Rider job openings in Michigan as of August 2026, with employment types broken down into 5% As Needed, 63% Full Time, 26% Part Time, 2% Temporary, 3% Contract, and 1% Nights. Highlights an 100% Physical job distribution, with an average salary of $32,779 per year, or $15.8 per hour.

Wrangler

Rothbury, MI • On-site

Double JJ Resort
Traveler Accommodation • 51 - 200 employees

$15/hr

Full-time

Posted 20 days ago


Job description

General Responsibilities:

  • Participate in and implement programming activities both in and out of the barn.
  • Participate in the maintenance of horses, equipment, and facilities.
  • Understand (behavior, feeding, health) of horses.
  • Able to push herd from pasture to pen on horseback. May also include walking, running or driving herd.
  • Identify most horses by name and level.
  • Safely move horses from pen to barn and into correct stalls.
  • Follow feeding instructions specific to each horse.
  • Follow tacking instructions specific to each horse including lifting saddles up to 50 pounds from racks to backs.
  • Correctly assess feed and hay quality.
  • Follow grooming procedures according to standards.
  • Identify health issues including wounds (cuts, scrapes, punctures, etc.); illness (colic, founder, etc.) and lameness and report to Equestrian Manager.
  • Follow all safety guidelines and policies for guests and staff.
  • Understand emergency procedures for any equestrian accidents/incidents.
  • Work well with other members of staff to ensure riders are mounted and ride is out on time.
  • Help inexperienced riders feel safe but can also understand when the rider needs to end ride immediately and can effectively make that happen.
  • Communicate effectively and clearly during any situation (especially emergencies).
  • Know all trails on property and effectively communicate position of ride in case of emergency.
  • Repair fences around pastures and barns when necessary.

Qualifications:

  • Able to lift, throw and stack square hay bales (up to 75 pounds) on wagons, vehicles, barns, and lofts.
  • Understands all safety guidelines as described in wrangler manual and procedures for working around horses, riding, maintaining barn, and participating in any equine programming.
  • Able to ride at walk, trot, canter, gallop.